iRobot Create 2

In this tutorial, learn how to use the iRobot Create 2 to drive around and stream video over the wireless network. We will control the iRobot Create 2 via WiFi from our laptop computer, using a PlayStation controller to steer.

This tutorial will be a new way to control an iRobot Create 2 with Gumstix products, featuring the Gumstix AeroCore 2 for Overo. We’ll control the iRobot Create 2 with a Sony DualShock 4 controller connected to an Ubuntu desktop machine. The Ubuntu machine will forward a command stream to the Overo + AeroCore 2 over a WiFi network, or the Overo in Access Point mode. The Overo will stream a live video feed from the Logitech C920 webcam back to the Ubuntu machine. All the components fit nicely in the stock dust bin, or 3D printed one from the first iRobot Create 2 Tutorial.

In part two of the series, we will build the irobotcreate2 package from source to install on our host machine. But first, let’s have a preview of what we’re actually building! Check out the video below to see the Create 2 in action, exploring our office (skip to 0:53 to see it start moving and streaming):